Final answer:
Testing for congenital rubella syndrome includes hemagglutinin inhibition assays and immunological techniques to detect rubella-specific antibodies. Pregnant women are advised not to receive the MMR vaccine due to its use of live, attenuated viruses and potential theoretical risks to the fetus.
Step-by-step explanation:
Congenital Rubella Syndrome Testing and MMR Vaccination During Pregnancy
If there is suspicion of congenital rubella syndrome (CRS), a series of tests can be conducted to confirm the diagnosis. These tests include hemagglutinin inhibition assays and various immunological techniques to detect the presence of rubella-specific antibodies that indicate a rubella infection. Since the rubella virus is teratogenic, prenatal screening is a standard practice to identify and manage this risk.
Pregnant women are advised against receiving the MMR vaccination because it contains live, attenuated viruses that theoretically pose a risk to the developing fetus. However, studies have not found an association between the MMR vaccine and harm to unborn babies during pregnancy. Nonetheless, out of an abundance of caution, the MMR vaccine is recommended before pregnancy or postpartum.